Lynch is confirmed to ride National contender Treacle

TRAINER Tom Taaffe has secured the services of Andrew Lynch for the ride on Treacle in the John Smith’s Grand National next month.

The 11-year-old was fourth in a veterans’ race over the park fences at Aintree in October, but it was his two subsequent efforts which marked him down as a major National player.

Treacle was only narrowly beaten in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas, when Lynch was at the helm, and then ran a stormer to grab third spot in the Irish Hennessy Gold Cup in February.

“Everything is going according to plan at this stage – we’re very happy with him,” said County Kildare-based Taaffe. “Andrew Lynch will ride him. He was second on him in the Paddy Power over Christmas and we’re delighted to have him.

“We’re just under three weeks away from the race, so hopefully everything continues to go well between now and then.”

Duroob gave enthusiastic trainer Oliver Brady reason to cheer when landing a gamble in the Toals Bookmaker Ulster Grand National at Downpatrick.

The admirable Selection Box put up a bold display from the front end in the three-and-a-half-mile contest, but he was passed by both favourite Talab and Carsonstown Boy after the final obstacle. Duroob (8-1) came by them all, however, under Adrian Heskin to land the prize by three lengths going away.